Why You Should Trust Your Double Glazing Repairs to Local Experts Replacing double-glazed windows is not something you can do yourself, but a glass expert can make it simple and safe. It is also worth contacting the company you bought it from to determine if it's still under warranty. Drilling holes in misted windows will allow the condensation to escape however it is only a temporary fix. Double glazing that is blown needs to be replaced in order to improve thermal efficiency. Broken window panes When a window pane breaks it leaves a noticeable gap in the double glazing that can result in draughts and moisture. double glazing repairs near me but also can damage your property and health. In fact, damp environments can cause rotted frames and other structural issues that can be costly to fix. However, a broken pane is often an easy fix provided you know how to fix it correctly. Wear a pair of gloves and eye protection to safeguard yourself. Remove the old glass shards. Once you have removed the shards employ a knife to cut through any glazing putty or metal glazing points. Once the glass is free, carefully remove it from the frame. After you've cleaned and sanded the surface to get rid of any gunk or paint, it's time to prepare the area to be ready for the glass. Make sure you measure the opening from side to side and top to bottom. Then subtract 1/8 inch from both dimensions to accommodate any expansion or contraction of the frame over time. This will ensure that the new glass is installed correctly. Then, apply a string of glaziers compound to the outside edge of your glass-frame joint. Smooth it out with a putty blade, ensuring it matches the color of the frame. Once the compound is dry, you can paint the compound and the new pane to match the rest of the window. In order to stop the crack from travelling to the next level, cut an arc of a tiny size with your utility knife just beyond the crack. This will curve the crack to ensure it doesn't grow, allowing you to save your window pane and avoid the expense of replacing it altogether. Although you might be tempted to make your own repairs however, it can be very difficult without the right tools. It is safer and more convenient to contact a professional who specializes in local double-glazing repairs. This will not only spare you a lot of trouble however, it will ensure that your double glazing is repaired professionally to the highest standards. Broken seals A broken seal can cause windows to lose their insulation properties, resulting in drafts and higher energy bills. This allows moisture and humidity to get into the window panes, which can cause condensation and fogging. Foggy windows are a nuisance and will only get worse over time if you don't do something about it. You can stop the seals on your windows from breaking by having your windows professionally installed, and avoiding cleaning your windows with power. Even if your windows look good, you should have the window seals repaired as soon as you can if you notice any signs that the seal is damaged like condensation on the glass or an increase in your energy costs. Window seals are made of flexible materials that may become damaged as time passes. This is more prevalent in older windows, and also those which have been exposed to sunlight. Window seals may also fail if there are problems with the installation, such as gaps or frames that are uneven. While it is possible to repair damaged window seals at home however, the process is complicated and could damage other parts of the windows, like the argon gas contained within them. It is suggested to speak with an expert glazier to inspect your windows and fix any worn or damaged seals. When the window seal has been replaced, your double-glazed will be able to perform just as it should, securing your home from heat loss and cold air infiltration. This will help you save money on cooling and heating while keeping your home warm. In the majority of cases, fixing the window seal that is damaged requires removing the window from its sash, and then removing the old sealant. Once the window is cleaned and is now ready to be reinstalled it will be filled with argon and sealed again. While it is possible to do this yourself but it is advised to contact an expert glazier to make sure that the job is done properly and safely. Broken door handles The handle on the front door of your home is a vital part of your security. It opens the door and also attaches to a latch placed in the slot of the door frame in order to keep it closed. If the handle isn't tight this could cause difficulty opening the door. It may be an indication that the locking mechanism is not working properly. It's easy to fix a loose handle on the door. In most cases, you can tighten the screw that holds it in place. However, if the problem is more extensive than that, you might require an entirely new handle. You will need to first open the door using a stop or wedge to ensure that it doesn't close when you are working on the knob or handle. This will prevent the paint from being damaged and allow you to access all parts of the doorknob or handle without having to worry about the latch. The next step is to take off the coverplate that is positioned over the door handle. This may look like a piece of plastic, whether rectangular or round, which is designed to hide screws to give it a more clean look. Some of them may have the appearance of a small slot or detent which you can press down using a flathead to release. Then, you'll need to remove the handle's base and expose the screws holding it in the position. The cover plate hides the majority of the screws that hold your door knob or handle in place. After removing the cover plate, you will be able to easily identify all of the screws and tighten them as necessary. Be sure not to over-tighten them, as this may damage the handle or knob. Once all the screws are tight you can put the base back on, and then place the knob or handle on top of it to align with the screw holes (if there are visible holes) or the detent hole. Test the handle once you're done to make sure it functions properly. Chips and scratches Sometimes, even the best-maintained double glazing can be damaged. It can only take one or two hits from stray footballs or a sudden blast of wind to cause chips, cracks and scratches. These damage could have a negative impact on the performance of your doors and windows and require them to be replaced. It is essential to identify the signs of damage and to notify your installer as quickly as you can. It is helpful if provide the details of the problem, as well as photos where relevant. Depending on the degree of the chips or scratches, it may be possible to get them repaired without too much trouble. If the scratch is large enough that you can feel it with your fingernail, it's best to get a glazier in to get rid of it. They will be able to use glass polish to remove the scratch. They will also be able offer some tips for maintaining your windows and doors to keep them in top condition. Be on the lookout for indications of a gas leak in the space between your window panes. If you notice condensation between window panes, it could indicate that the inert gases have evaporated and warm, indoor air is now circulating through your home. If you spot this issue it is crucial to get in touch with your installer straight away, as this will likely be covered under your warranty. If your double-glazed windows have a warranty and you are eligible to claim back any repair costs. You may also want to consider switching to a different company that can be trusted to provide top-quality products and exceptional customer service. You can read online reviews, check the BBB and ask for references from past customers to ensure that you choose an installer with a solid reputation for professionalism and quality. You should also inquire about certifications from major manufacturers as well as the Fenestration and Glazing Industry Alliance. This will allow you to avoid companies that aren't authorized to install your double glazing.
double glazing repairs near me
